UD President Patrick T. Harker announced March 2 that he will step down as president to become president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. His new appointment is effective July 1.

The Faculty Senate Commission on Sexual Harassment and Assault, which is working in concert with UD's Title IX coordinator, has scheduled forums on March 5 for graduate students and March 9 for the entire campus community.

Tickets are not required for general seating; however, tickets will be required for the area accommodating the elderly and those with disabilities.

Due to increased security for this event, those planning to attend should arrive as early as possible. All attendees will be required to go through airport-style magnetometers, and items, such as bags, bottles and umbrellas, will be prohibited. For specific information, visit UD's Commencement website, which will be updated as additional details become available.

"We are honored to have Vice President Biden return to the University of Delaware to deliver this year's Commencement address," said Jeffrey Garland, vice president and University secretary. "The vice president has a remarkable record of public serviceto this nation, to the state of Delaware and to this University.

"His distinguished career showcases the power of engagement and the difference that one person can make. I know his insights will be particularly meaningful to our newest graduates as they celebrate their academic accomplishments."

Vice President Joe Biden

Biden, who was elected Vice President of the United States in 2008 after a 36-year career in the U.S. Senate, is a 1965 UD graduate, earning a bachelor's degree with a double major in history and political science.

A frequent visitor to his alma mater, he has spoken at three previous UD Commencements: in 1978, in 1987 and in 2004, when he was presented an honorary doctor of laws degree.

His wife, Jill Biden, earned her bachelor's and doctoral degrees from UD.

As a senator from Delaware, Biden established himself as a leader on some of the nation's most important domestic and international challenges. On the Senate Judiciary Committee for 17 years, he was widely recognized for his work on criminal justice issues including the landmark 1994 Crime Bill and the Violence Against Women Act. On the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.

As the 47th Vice President of the United States, Biden has continued his leadership on important issues facing the nation. He was tasked with implementing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, helping to rebuild the economy and lay the foundation for a sustainable economic future. As part of his continued efforts to raise the living standards of middle class Americans across the country, he also has focused on issues of college affordability and American manufacturing growth.

Biden has advised the President on a multitude of international issues and

has represented this country in every region of the world, traveling to more than two dozen countries.

Commencement Information

Details about the University's 165th Commencement are available on a special UD Commencement website. Additional media details will be released at a later date.